1st Edition
Teaching Reading Organically in the Early Childhood Classroom Using the Key Vocabulary Approaches of Sylvia Ashton-Warner
Biography
Selma Wassermann is Professor Emerita in the Faculty of Education at Simon Fraser University. She is the author of more than 30 academic texts and assorted classroom curriculum materials. She is the proud recipient of the University Award for Teaching Excellence.
“Dr. Wassermann has, with this thoughtful and helpful book, built upon her remarkable experiences developing teaching materials for educators and parents. This book puts into practice the concepts and the rationale for getting children into a positive mindset when it comes to pre-reading and reading independently. Guidelines and expectations are given careful consideration in this thoughtful, practical and clearly written book.”
Deborah Devine, Director/Owner Learning Palette Preschool, North Carolina
“Teaching Reading in the Organic Primary Classroom makes a significant contribution to the thinking and practice of teaching young children. The reader, (parent, pre-service/in-service educator, administrator or university educator), will acquire the understanding and skills necessary to provide the learner with an environment in which learning to read is meaningful and successful and is integrated into a well described early childhood language arts program. The 'Whole Language' versus 'Phonics' controversy is successfully resolved. I highly recommend this book.”
Maureen McAllister, retired teacher and elementary consultant, Vancouver School Board; and former Faculty Associate, Simon Fraser University.
“Selma Wassermann swiftly resolves the long-running conflict between phonics and whole language approaches in pre and primary school reading instruction. You must combine and employ both. She presents a comprehensive, well-rounded program that draws on the native imagery of the young child and integrates it into the total language arts curriculum. Clearly written with ample examples of classroom activities, this book is essential for all teachers and parents involved in early reading instruction.”
W. C. Cliett, Ph.D., Superintendent of Schools, Gainesville, FL (retired)
“Teaching Reading in the Organic Classroom, is a timely and important and book. Professor Wassermann advocates for an integrated language arts program that combines whole language instruction and phonics. It is an approach that creates the best possible pathway into the world of reading. Working at their own pace, beginning-readers take ownership for their own learning in collaboration with the teacher. Some students may be choosing and printing words that have personal meaning, others will be journal writing. Students experience daily successes in this joy-filled program. Words and journal entries are celebrated in small groups via shared reading and peer questions. Professor Wassermann provides an invaluable guide for teachers wishing to invite beginning readers into the magical world of reading.”
Annie O’Donaghue, retired principal, Vancouver School Board; Faculty Associate, Simon Fraser University
